• DOE announces opening of the second round awards cycle of the Civil Nuclear Credit Program
• This credit program is imperative to the wellbeing of the worldwide reactor fleet and will keep many reactors in a stable state 
• The civil nuclear credit program will give a helping hand to financially struggling reactors and will help thousands keep their jobs 

The Civil Nuclear Credit Program, established through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), is a strategic investment of $6 billion aimed at preserving the current U.S. nuclear reactor fleet and safeguarding high-paying jobs. Its purpose is to provide support and incentives for owners or operators of commercial U.S. reactors to continue their operations. By doing so, the program aims to prevent economic-driven closures that would result in increased air pollutants and the loss of clean energy jobs.

Under the program, owners or operators of commercial U.S. reactors can apply for certification to bid on credits that will assist in sustaining their operations. To qualify, an application must demonstrate that the reactor is projected to close for economic reasons and that its closure would lead to a rise in air pollutants. Selected certified reactors will be allocated credits over a four-year period, starting from the date of selection, with credits potentially being awarded until September 30, 2031, as long as funds remain available.

The program addresses the challenges faced by the nuclear power sector, including shifting energy markets and other economic factors, which have already led to the premature closure of 13 commercial nuclear power reactors in the United States over the past decade. The closure of nuclear power plants can result in increased air pollutants and carbon emissions, leading to poorer air quality in surrounding areas and the loss of clean energy jobs.

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has recently issued guidance for the second award cycle of the Civil Nuclear Credit Program. This cycle is open to owners or operators of nuclear reactors that are at risk of closing by the end of the four-year award period, including reactors that have closed after November 15, 2021, as specified by the DOE.

Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm has emphasized that expanding the scope of federal funding through the program will provide more nuclear facilities with the opportunity to continue operating. This will not only benefit local communities by providing them with cheap, clean, and reliable power but also support the struggling reactors and preserve and create jobs in the nuclear field.

In summary, the Civil Nuclear Credit Program is an important initiative to uphold the strength of the existing nuclear fleet and prevent the closure of economically at-risk nuclear power plants. By providing financial support and incentives, the program aims to maintain clean energy production, prevent an increase in air pollutants, and protect jobs in the nuclear industry.